New Hampshire Cosmetology Practice Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Over-processing hair during coloring can lead to hair breakage due to the damage inflicted on the hair's structure. When hair is subjected to chemical processes, especially coloring, it can strip away essential moisture and weaken the hair shaft. This occurs because the chemicals in hair color, particularly harsh bleach or high ammonia levels, lift the cuticle layer and alter the hair's protein structure.

As the hair loses its natural moisture and elasticity from these processes, it becomes more susceptible to mechanical damage from styling or even regular handling. As a result, the hair may break easily, leading to split ends and overall thinning of the hair.

In contrast, enhanced shine, increased thickness, and improved texture are outcomes that are typically desired from a coloring procedure but can instead be the opposite if hair is over-processed. After over-processing, the hair may appear dull, feel brittle, and lack the smoothness often associated with healthy hair. Thus, understanding the risks of over-processing is crucial for anyone in the cosmetology field.